(BOISE, ID) – Turn on the news these days, and you’re likely to hear about a wildfire burning somewhere in the West. AAA is sharing tips to help homeowners and families reduce the effects of wildfire.
“Wildfires can start quickly and spread rapidly, leaving a wake of destruction in their path. Fortunately, there are several steps we can take to help protect our homes and loved ones,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “The first thing is the most obvious – if an evacuation is declared, please take it seriously. Emergency responders do everything they can to protect dwellings and communities, but sometimes those resources are stretched during a crisis.”
AAA wildfire tips
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Create a defensible space around your home. Keep tree limbs, debris, grills, propane tanks, and firewood piles at least ten feet away from buildings
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Keep grass short and watered
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Have hoses, ladders, shovels and rakes ready, just in case
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Create a ‘go bag’ for everyone in your home, with clothing, medications, a light source, food, water, and important documents
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Make sure your house number is clearly marked on your home and in front of your driveway
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Store valuables and important papers in a fireproof box
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Carefully document valuables for insurance purposes
“If you or your family members have a sensitivity to smoke, you may need to replace air filters more frequently, run the air conditioning with the intake closed, close doors and windows, and reduce vacuuming that could kick up particulates in the air,” Conde said. “And when you’re out and about, please avoid doing anything that could cause a wildfire – don’t park or drive in tall grass, avoid dragging trailer chains or other metal on the road, thoroughly extinguish campfires used in designated areas, comply with burn bans, and never throw cigarettes or glass bottles from your vehicle.”